Are you looking to escape the hustle and bustle of West Palm Beach, FL for a day of adventure and exploration? Discover the beauty and excitement of nearby destinations with our guide to day trips from West Palm Beach FL. From pristine beaches to charming towns and outdoor adventures, there is something for everyone just a short drive away. Explore the best day trip options and start planning your next unforgettable excursion today.
Miami
Travel tips
- Distance from West Palm Beach FL to Miami: approximately 70 miles
- Time to get there: around 1.5 to 2 hours by car
- How to get there from West Palm Beach FL: You can take the Greyhound bus service from West Palm Beach to Miami, with the bus station located at 205 S Tamarind Ave. Another option is to take the Tri-Rail train from West Palm Beach to Miami, with the train station located at 201 S Tamarind Ave.
- Click for Google maps directions: Miami
Exploring Miami: Things to do
Miami is a vibrant city known for its beautiful beaches, diverse culture, and exciting nightlife. One of the must-see places in Miami is South Beach, famous for its white sandy shores and colorful Art Deco architecture. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and people-watching along the iconic Ocean Drive.
For those interested in art and culture, a visit to the Wynwood Walls is a must. This outdoor street art gallery features colorful murals by renowned artists from around the world. Strolling through Wynwood’s streets, visitors can admire the vibrant graffiti and unique art installations that make this neighborhood a hub for creativity.
Miami is also a paradise for food lovers, with a wide range of culinary experiences to indulge in. From Cuban cafecitos to fresh seafood at the local markets, the city offers a diverse array of dining options to satisfy every palate.
In addition to its beaches and cultural attractions, Miami is home to a thriving nightlife scene. Visitors can dance the night away at trendy clubs in South Beach, enjoy live music at local bars, or sip cocktails at rooftop lounges overlooking the city skyline.
Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore art galleries, savor delicious cuisine, or dance until dawn, Miami has something for everyone. With its unique blend of sun, sand, and culture, Miami is a destination that should not be missed.
Fort Lauderdale
Travel tips
- Distance from West Palm Beach FL: Approximately 50 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1 hour by car
- How to get there: You can take the Tri-Rail train from West Palm Beach to Fort Lauderdale. The train station in West Palm Beach is located at 201 South Tamarind Avenue. In Fort Lauderdale, the train station is situated at 200 Southwest 21st Terrace. Alternatively, you can also drive down I-95 South to reach Fort Lauderdale.
- Click for Google maps directions: Fort Lauderdale
Exploring Fort Lauderdale: Things to do
Fort Lauderdale is a vibrant city known for its stunning beaches, bustling nightlife, and rich cultural scene. One of the top attractions in Fort Lauderdale is the famous Las Olas Boulevard, lined with shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Visitors can also explore the historic Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, showcasing a blend of art, architecture, and nature.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Fort Lauderdale offers a variety of water activities such as snorkeling, diving, and paddleboarding. The city’s beautiful beaches like Fort Lauderdale Beach and Hugh Taylor Birch State Park are perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun. Don’t miss the chance to take a scenic boat tour along the Intracoastal Waterway to admire the luxurious waterfront homes and yachts.
In addition to its natural beauty, Fort Lauderdale boasts a thriving culinary scene with diverse dining options ranging from fresh seafood to international cuisine. The city also hosts events and festivals throughout the year, including the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show and the Tortuga Music Festival.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway or an exciting urban adventure, Fort Lauderdale offers something for everyone. With its perfect blend of sun, sand, and culture, this city is truly a must-see destination in South Florida.
Key West
Travel tips
- Distance from West Palm Beach FL to Key West: Approximately 160 miles
- Time to get there: Around 3.5 to 4 hours by car
- How to get there: You can drive from West Palm Beach to Key West via US-1 S, or take a bus from the Greyhound station in West Palm Beach to the Key West Greyhound station. Alternatively, you can take the Tri-Rail from West Palm Beach to Miami and then catch a bus to Key West.
- Click for Google maps directions: Key West
Exploring Key West: Things to do
Key West is a must-see destination for its vibrant culture, stunning sunsets, and rich history. One of the top attractions in Key West is the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, where you can learn about the famous author’s life and see the descendants of his beloved six-toed cats. For outdoor enthusiasts, a visit to the Dry Tortugas National Park offers snorkeling opportunities in crystal-clear waters and a chance to explore the historic Fort Jefferson.
Don’t miss the iconic Southernmost Point Buoy, marking the southernmost point of the continental United States. Mallory Square is another popular spot to catch the sunset and enjoy street performances by local artists. Key West is also known for its lively Duval Street, lined with shops, restaurants, and bars offering a taste of the island’s nightlife.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply relaxing on the beach, Key West has something for everyone to enjoy during a day trip from West Palm Beach.
Everglades National Park
Travel tips
- Distance from West Palm Beach FL: Approximately 80 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1.5 to 2 hours by car
- How to get there: Take the I-95 S highway from West Palm Beach and continue onto the Florida Turnpike S. Follow signs for Homestead/Key West and take exit 4 onto US-41 W. Continue on this road until you reach the park entrance.
- Click for Google maps directions: Everglades National Park
Exploring Everglades National Park: Things to do
Everglades National Park is a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike. The park is renowned for its vast expanse of wetlands, diverse ecosystems, and unique wildlife. One of the top activities to do in Everglades National Park is to take an airboat tour through the marshes and mangrove forests. These tours offer a thrilling way to explore the park and spot alligators, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
For those interested in hiking and birdwatching, the park offers numerous trails and observation points where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of the Everglades. The Anhinga Trail is a popular choice for spotting alligators, turtles, and a variety of bird species up close. Additionally, the Shark Valley Observation Tower provides panoramic views of the park and is a great spot for photography enthusiasts.
Visitors can also opt for a guided ranger-led tour to learn more about the park’s history, conservation efforts, and the importance of preserving this unique ecosystem. Kayaking and canoeing along the park’s waterways are also popular activities, allowing visitors to explore the mangrove tunnels and waterways at their own pace.
Overall, Everglades National Park offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience the beauty and biodiversity of one of America’s most treasured natural landscapes. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a deeper connection with nature, a visit to Everglades National Park is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Orlando
Travel tips
- Distance from West Palm Beach FL to Orlando: Approximately 170 miles
- Time to get there: Around 2.5 to 3 hours by car
- How to get there: You can drive from West Palm Beach to Orlando via I-95 N and FL Turnpike N. Alternatively, you can take a bus from the Greyhound station in West Palm Beach to Orlando. There is no direct train route between the two cities.
- Click for Google maps directions: Orlando
Exploring Orlando: Things to do
Orlando is a must-see destination for travelers seeking a mix of thrilling adventures and family-friendly entertainment. Known as the theme park capital of the world, Orlando offers a variety of attractions that cater to visitors of all ages.
One of the top things to do in Orlando is to visit Walt Disney World Resort, a magical place where fairy tales come to life. Explore the enchanting lands of Magic Kingdom, meet your favorite Disney characters, and experience heart-pounding rides that will leave you exhilarated.
For those seeking a more adrenaline-fueled experience, Universal Orlando Resort is a must-visit destination. Dive into the wizarding world of Harry Potter at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, or enjoy thrilling rides and shows at Universal Studios Florida.
If you’re a nature lover, don’t miss out on a visit to Gatorland, where you can get up close and personal with Florida’s most famous residents. Take a thrilling airboat ride through the Everglades or explore the lush landscapes of the Harry P. Leu Gardens.
In addition to its world-renowned theme parks, Orlando also boasts a vibrant dining scene, shopping opportunities, and cultural attractions. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant streets of Disney Springs or catching a live performance at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando offers something for everyone.
Overall, Orlando’s diverse range of activities and attractions make it a must-see destination for travelers looking to experience the magic of Florida.
Naples
Travel tips
- Distance from West Palm Beach FL to Naples: Approximately 150 miles
- Time to get there: Around 2.5 to 3 hours by car
- How to get there: You can drive from West Palm Beach to Naples via I-75 S. If you prefer public transportation, you can take a Greyhound bus from West Palm Beach to Fort Myers, then transfer to a Collier Area Transit bus to Naples. The nearest train station is in Fort Myers.
- Click for Google maps directions: Naples
Exploring Naples: Things to do
Naples, Florida, is a must-see destination for those seeking a perfect blend of sun, sea, and sophistication. Known for its pristine beaches, upscale shopping, and vibrant arts scene, Naples offers a diverse range of activities for visitors of all ages.
Start your day by exploring the iconic Naples Pier, where you can take a leisurely stroll or try your hand at fishing while enjoying panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico. For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is a must, offering a glimpse into Florida’s unique ecosystem with its boardwalk trails and diverse wildlife.
Art lovers will appreciate the array of galleries and museums in Naples, including The Baker Museum and the Naples Art District, showcasing both local and international talent. If shopping is on your agenda, head to Fifth Avenue South or Third Street South for upscale boutiques, art galleries, and gourmet dining options.
For a taste of adventure, consider exploring the nearby Everglades National Park through guided tours or airboat rides, where you can spot alligators, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. And of course, no visit to Naples is complete without indulging in fresh seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants overlooking the picturesque Naples Bay.
Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore nature, or immerse yourself in culture, Naples offers something for everyone, making it a top destination for a day trip from West Palm Beach.
Kennedy Space Center
Travel tips
- Distance from West Palm Beach FL: 180 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 3 hours
- How to get there: The most convenient way to reach Kennedy Space Center from West Palm Beach is by car. Take I-95 N and FL-528 E to Kennedy Space Center. Alternatively, you can also take a bus from West Palm Beach to Orlando and then transfer to a shuttle service to the Space Center.
- Click for Google maps directions: Kennedy Space Center
Exploring Kennedy Space Center: Things to do
Kennedy Space Center is a must-see destination for space enthusiasts and anyone interested in the history and future of space exploration. The center offers a unique opportunity to learn about NASA’s missions, space technology, and the incredible achievements of astronauts.
Visitors can start their journey at the Visitor Complex, where they can explore interactive exhibits, see real spacecraft, and even meet astronauts. One of the highlights of a visit to Kennedy Space Center is the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit, where guests can get up close to the iconic orbiter and learn about its missions.
For a truly immersive experience, visitors can take a bus tour of the center, which includes stops at historic launch sites and the Apollo/Saturn V Center, where the massive Saturn V rocket is displayed. The Rocket Garden is another popular attraction, showcasing a collection of historic rockets from the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo programs.
Don’t miss the opportunity to witness a rocket launch if one is scheduled during your visit. The feeling of watching a spacecraft lift off into the sky is truly awe-inspiring and a memory that will last a lifetime.
Overall, Kennedy Space Center offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of space exploration and is a destination that educates, inspires, and captivates visitors of all ages.
